What do you think?
Rate this book
Physician Suicide Letters Answered
In Physician Suicide Letters—Answered, Dr. Wible exposes the pervasive and largely hidden medical culture of bullying, hazing, and abuse that claims the lives of countless medical students, doctors, and patients. Now—for the first time released to the public—here are private letters and last words from our doctors who could no longer bear the pain of an abusive medical system. What you don’t know about medical training and culture can kill you. Dr. Wible takes you behind the white coat and into the mind, heart, and soul of our doctors—and provides answers.
204 pages, Paperback
Published January 11, 2016
53 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Wible
6 books11 followersPamela Wible, M.D., is a family physician born into a family of physicians. Her parents warned her not to pursue medicine. She followed her heart only to discover that to heal her patients she had to first heal her profession. So she led a series of town hall meetings where she invited citizens to design their ideal clinic. Celebrated since 2005, Wible's pioneering model has sparked a populist movement that has inspired Americans to create ideal clinics and hospitals nationwide.
Dr. Wible is the founder of the Ideal Medical Care Movement and has been named one of the 2015 Women Leaders in Medicine by the American Medical Student Association for her pioneering contributions to medical student and physician suicide prevention. An expert in patient-centered care, Dr. Wible has been interviewed by CNN, ABC, CBS, and is a frequent guest on NPR.
Dr. Wible is the founder of the Ideal Medical Care Movement and has been named one of the 2015 Women Leaders in Medicine by the American Medical Student Association for her pioneering contributions to medical student and physician suicide prevention. An expert in patient-centered care, Dr. Wible has been interviewed by CNN, ABC, CBS, and is a frequent guest on NPR.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 17, 2016
Full disclosure: I edited this book.
Fuller disclosure: Therefore I benefited more than any normal reader. I read it multiple times, never got bored, was deeply moved and enraged.
This book changed my whole understanding of the problems we face trying to find affordable, compassionate, competent medical care. This book made very personal the cancer at the core of medical training: an accepted culture of bullying, abuse, and sleep deprivation tantamount to torture. And this is a worldwide cancer. The suicide letters and letters from families and friends of physicians who have taken their own lives come from all over the globe! And doctor suicide is a different animal from regular-people suicide. (My father committed suicide and these cases have nothing in common with his.)
I now understand that no insurance plan—Obamacare or single payer—will heal medical care. Nor will an attitude of “every man fend for himself” and no government involvement. I would like this book to become part of the conversation about medical care. I hope it starts a revolution. You cannot read this book and remain unconcerned.
Fuller disclosure: Therefore I benefited more than any normal reader. I read it multiple times, never got bored, was deeply moved and enraged.
This book changed my whole understanding of the problems we face trying to find affordable, compassionate, competent medical care. This book made very personal the cancer at the core of medical training: an accepted culture of bullying, abuse, and sleep deprivation tantamount to torture. And this is a worldwide cancer. The suicide letters and letters from families and friends of physicians who have taken their own lives come from all over the globe! And doctor suicide is a different animal from regular-people suicide. (My father committed suicide and these cases have nothing in common with his.)
I now understand that no insurance plan—Obamacare or single payer—will heal medical care. Nor will an attitude of “every man fend for himself” and no government involvement. I would like this book to become part of the conversation about medical care. I hope it starts a revolution. You cannot read this book and remain unconcerned.
Read
September 18, 2025I'm sorry, but Pamela Wible's answers to these letters were just bullshit. Plus, most of these e-mails weren't even suicide notes.
Like, this was clearly written by a white woman.
Like, this was clearly written by a white woman.
December 4, 2016
I started this book and was in tears from the first chapter. This is as gritty and real as true life gets. As a nurse suffering from work related PTSD, this hits so close to home. The system is broken in so many ways. It is broken for patients, providers and front line caregivers. The only people our current system works for is insurance companies and CEOs. If there is any cause you take up, may it be for the people who take care of us in all aspects of life from birth to grave. Doctors and nurses are abused daily. Abused to the point of being broken. Abused to death. Please read this book. It will open your eyes and change your life. If enough people take a stand, we can change the system and save lives-on both sides of the stethoscope.
May 1, 2020
4.5 stars. A must read for any Medical Student or Physician, whether or not you suffer from depression in Medical School, Residency or beyond, you sure as Hell know someone who does. Even if you are not aware of the scope of this problem, you should be.
End the stigma against Mental Illness by reading this book and sharing it.
End the stigma against those who report bullying.
I didn't have depression during Med school or Residency, but I almost died of suicide before medical school when I was rejected by every school to which I applied. So these letters ring true to me.
Please note: many of these letters are NOT from doctors or medical students who died by suicide, although a few are. Most are from physicians who know someone who died of suicide, or who were contemplating hurting themselves at the time they wrote Pamela and were reaching out.
It is so good to know that we who suffer from low self-esteem and sadness are not alone, and it is surprising to realize that high success as a physician or medical student does NOT protect a person from dying by suicide. This is a revolutionary idea for those of us like me who are average in ability, not accomplished, and who are failures at (many) things we want to do in life, who get rejected from jobs and schools and by other people we care about.
As far as the bullying, I reported bullying at a Hospital where I worked and as a result was forced out of that Hospital because I spoke up. The Bully, my Site-Lead, was given praise and kudos, and I was punished.
But reading this book makes me proud that I did speak up--it did no good whatsoever, and my directors did not care, my colleagues did not support me (except one or two who said it was wrong to me personally but didn't say it to anyone else). Now I am glad I tried to change that culture. It was the right thing to do.
I am buying and placing a copy of this book in every Doctor's Lounge where I have privileges.
It literally will save lives and has already.
End the stigma against Mental Illness by reading this book and sharing it.
End the stigma against those who report bullying.
I didn't have depression during Med school or Residency, but I almost died of suicide before medical school when I was rejected by every school to which I applied. So these letters ring true to me.
Please note: many of these letters are NOT from doctors or medical students who died by suicide, although a few are. Most are from physicians who know someone who died of suicide, or who were contemplating hurting themselves at the time they wrote Pamela and were reaching out.
It is so good to know that we who suffer from low self-esteem and sadness are not alone, and it is surprising to realize that high success as a physician or medical student does NOT protect a person from dying by suicide. This is a revolutionary idea for those of us like me who are average in ability, not accomplished, and who are failures at (many) things we want to do in life, who get rejected from jobs and schools and by other people we care about.
As far as the bullying, I reported bullying at a Hospital where I worked and as a result was forced out of that Hospital because I spoke up. The Bully, my Site-Lead, was given praise and kudos, and I was punished.
But reading this book makes me proud that I did speak up--it did no good whatsoever, and my directors did not care, my colleagues did not support me (except one or two who said it was wrong to me personally but didn't say it to anyone else). Now I am glad I tried to change that culture. It was the right thing to do.
I am buying and placing a copy of this book in every Doctor's Lounge where I have privileges.
It literally will save lives and has already.
January 15, 2020
a little self-congratulatory (or a little more than a little), but still, devastating. been thinking a lot about medicine & how a mentor on a cross country bike tour told me i had a soul of a healer & how my worldview is so guided by my ideas of health equity. thinking ab organizing work & esther's snowy laugh and prof swaminathan
February 8, 2017
Full Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book by Dr. Pamela Wible in exchange for an honest review. I am currently a 4th year medical student.
Physician suicide is a dense, frightening topic that is oftentimes ignored or taboo, especially in the worst sphere—the medical profession. In publishing real suicide letters, Dr. Wible is attempting to bring this haunting topic to light in an effort to combat the reasons underlying the medical profession that has caused so many physicians in various stages of their careers to follow through with their suicidal ideations. For healers to take their own lives due to the stressors and circumstances of their work is tragic. For a profession that treats mental illness to ignore and punish cries for help is a travesty. These stories bring to light a crisis that needs to be open to discourse, action, and change.
This book drips with the despair and anguish of doctors not just in America, but all over the world—physician suicide is not solely a problem of the United States. At times, this book is a very difficult read, because the letters themselves could be written by anyone… mothers, brothers, friends, people you think you know well. The reasons behind the hopelessness is myriad—the harassing nature of medical training itself, from inhumane working hours to public humiliation of trainees through “pimping” to crippling educational debt and constant stress. Viewpoints described in detail by those living and breathing the experience are gripping, shocking, and heartbreaking.
In a way, this book feels incomplete, because sometimes the letters have no response. However, this is a great example of why this topic is important. The honesty and the fear described in this book are palpable. By sharing these real letters, Dr. Wible opens up the conversation about mental illness in physicians and how we can reverse the stigma and cause of the epidemic. This book is a must read by anyone in the medical field, considering the medical field, or who loves someone in the medical field.
Physician suicide is a dense, frightening topic that is oftentimes ignored or taboo, especially in the worst sphere—the medical profession. In publishing real suicide letters, Dr. Wible is attempting to bring this haunting topic to light in an effort to combat the reasons underlying the medical profession that has caused so many physicians in various stages of their careers to follow through with their suicidal ideations. For healers to take their own lives due to the stressors and circumstances of their work is tragic. For a profession that treats mental illness to ignore and punish cries for help is a travesty. These stories bring to light a crisis that needs to be open to discourse, action, and change.
This book drips with the despair and anguish of doctors not just in America, but all over the world—physician suicide is not solely a problem of the United States. At times, this book is a very difficult read, because the letters themselves could be written by anyone… mothers, brothers, friends, people you think you know well. The reasons behind the hopelessness is myriad—the harassing nature of medical training itself, from inhumane working hours to public humiliation of trainees through “pimping” to crippling educational debt and constant stress. Viewpoints described in detail by those living and breathing the experience are gripping, shocking, and heartbreaking.
In a way, this book feels incomplete, because sometimes the letters have no response. However, this is a great example of why this topic is important. The honesty and the fear described in this book are palpable. By sharing these real letters, Dr. Wible opens up the conversation about mental illness in physicians and how we can reverse the stigma and cause of the epidemic. This book is a must read by anyone in the medical field, considering the medical field, or who loves someone in the medical field.
September 8, 2016
I found this book a couple of months ago. I don't buy books, so I spent the first couple of months trying to find a free copy in the community. After many unsuccessful attempts, I decided to buy the kindle version (my first kindle version). I am a pre-medical student, and I told myself that I had to read this book. I can say that anyone who wants to go into the medical profession (especially physicians) need to read this.
We are in an era where there is stigma against mental health issues not just outside of the medical world, but also within the system. A system should be implemented to support medical students and physicians. Too many bright-minded individuals with a good heart are ending their lives too soon.
After reading this book, I am still attracted to the medical field, but I understand now why most people are different people when they graduate from medical school.
We are in an era where there is stigma against mental health issues not just outside of the medical world, but also within the system. A system should be implemented to support medical students and physicians. Too many bright-minded individuals with a good heart are ending their lives too soon.
After reading this book, I am still attracted to the medical field, but I understand now why most people are different people when they graduate from medical school.
August 19, 2016
I am a rural family doctor, privileged enough to train in systems that felt fairly supportive to me as a learner, and to not have lost any colleagues to suicide to my knowledge. . . But still reading the introduction aloud to my co-resident and dear friend as we were driving to a conference, I had to stop for tears because Pamela's words ring true- "Even though I still have a sparkle in my eyes and joy in my heart, a piece of me is missing. I can never get it back. I've tried. My innocence is gone." As I told my driving buddy- I really liked the old me.
For physicians and for patients suffering from our dysfunctional health care system- this book offers hope. Know you're not alone, and there are ways to stop the suffering!
For physicians and for patients suffering from our dysfunctional health care system- this book offers hope. Know you're not alone, and there are ways to stop the suffering!
April 11, 2020
This book should be read slowly, halting after every chapter to ponder what went wrong with each individual's life. I admit that I read it through quite fast so I don't think I let every sink in properly. At some point I wished that at the end of each segment there would be a short essay from the author where she would point out and highlight where the system had failed each individual but by the end of the book, I was happy that I didn't get my wish as it would have made the book quite preachy. The author was right to rely on the letters doing the talking for her and if the reader wants more information, they can go out and find it themselves; the book gives details on how to accomplish that. All in all, a very thought-provoking read!
March 15, 2016
I am SO PROUD that Pamela is my doctor!
I chose Pamela as my doctor because the family doctor I had seen every year for over 20 years didn't recognize me in the waiting room. I had only been able to see her for about 15 minutes each year for my physical. I always had a list of questions prepared, but felt I needed to hurry. I blamed my doctor for acting rushed - like she didn't care. Until now... I should have given her a hug!
I am truly thankful for Pamela and the extra time she takes to get to know her patients! Her love just spills out and creates the perfect healing environment. The world is a better place because of Pamela!
I chose Pamela as my doctor because the family doctor I had seen every year for over 20 years didn't recognize me in the waiting room. I had only been able to see her for about 15 minutes each year for my physical. I always had a list of questions prepared, but felt I needed to hurry. I blamed my doctor for acting rushed - like she didn't care. Until now... I should have given her a hug!
I am truly thankful for Pamela and the extra time she takes to get to know her patients! Her love just spills out and creates the perfect healing environment. The world is a better place because of Pamela!
November 9, 2016
Pamela Wible, who pioneered the first community-designed ideal medical clinic in America, now presents us with heart rendering notes and letters of physicians and medical students who died due to suicide.
She explores and touches on the silent epidemic of abuse and harassment in Medical schools and hospitals and what can be done about it. (This is not unique to the US but happens worldwide.) This is a matter that demands our attention. At present, a cloak of secrecy gets pulled over this phenomenon.
How can the caretaker (physicians) take care of patients if we don't take care of the caretakers themselves?
She explores and touches on the silent epidemic of abuse and harassment in Medical schools and hospitals and what can be done about it. (This is not unique to the US but happens worldwide.) This is a matter that demands our attention. At present, a cloak of secrecy gets pulled over this phenomenon.
How can the caretaker (physicians) take care of patients if we don't take care of the caretakers themselves?
July 29, 2017
I'm an Industrial Psychologist, so probably on the fringe of this group. Nevertheless, I resonate with the pressure and a sense of isolation. The work Dr Wible is doing is amazing. May it create a more supportive and caring culture amongst practitioners! Sad to realize that there is so little help for the helpers. Debriefing opportunities seem essential. Many people experience hard times at work. Somehow the Executive and Life Coaching options seem to circumvent the stigma associated with counseling and treatment. Mentoring relationships may be useful. This book is thought - provoking and disturbing. A call for action.
February 8, 2016
I read this book in 2 sittings. Such an insightful look into the difficulties in practicing medicine, the barbaric way it's taught, & the affect it has on physicians. We are witness to such horrible things & often mistreated (especially during med school & residency); how could it not affect us? 400 doctors kill themselves each year; the equivalent to an entire medical school. Even though depression runs rampant in our profession, it is seen as a weakness to seek treatment. This book sheds light on this topic & offers hope. The author is doing amazing work!
April 1, 2016
I've always known what I was walking into when I decided to go into medicine. I didn't realize how rampant suicide was, however. I have a new perspective on the field I'm going into, but I'm still going to do it. This is my calling; this is my passion. I just realize that whatever I do and whatever I feel is to be expected and I can't keep it to myself. I have resources and options. I've recommended this book to my other Pre med friends. We'll get through this.
May 19, 2017
Very enlightening book on the apparently not-uncommon phenomenon of physician suicides. The book contains actual suicide letters as well as letters to the author reaching out for help. The author, herself a physician, has carved out a niche as an advocate for changing the medical system to make physician suicides less likely. The book was thought provoking but I wish it had been a bit more "substantial" in terms of research.
December 13, 2017
It took me an extremely long time to get through this book because it is so heart-wrenching. Many of us see Doctors as people whose job it is to heal, but I think we forget that they need help too. Each letter was a different story and perspective, and I thank Dr. Wible for allowing these people's voices to be heard, and for being a voice in the community to stand up to such a large and pervasive issue that is often kept quiet.
January 30, 2018
Thank you, Dr. Wible, for all that you’ve done and continue to do. I hope that every medical student or physician in practice can be made aware of your research, material, and helping heart if needed.
November 10, 2016
very sad. i didnt realize so many in my profession suffer in silence.
March 9, 2018
I think this small book is a must-read for all medical students, teachers and doctors and recommended for their families and friends. It's important to have awareness of its subject.
April 8, 2020
It sometimes made me feel hopeful, but just as often worsened my hopelessness. Still worth reading, though.
February 8, 2024
Solid book for what it is. The audiobook was free but I’d imaging this is better to read on paper/e-reader just because of the format.
June 4, 2018
A very simple beginning to discussion regarding physician and residents rate of suicide. I found that even though physicians have suicide issues, it is very prevalent in other health disciplines and also with lawyers. This book is a few years old, and I am seeing in all the professions a growing concern with the mental wellness of its members including my own (pharmacist). Even though I work in a large hospital system, I feel the administration says they care about your stress, they really don't do anything about it. More hospitals need to provide chiropractic, massage, acupuncture , etc. benefits; they are unattainable if you have to pay cash for the services. I find that more and more work is piled on with always the threat of job cuts. My son chose not to go into any medical field and I am glad. I believe he will have a better quality of life even though maybe at a lower pay rate.
February 11, 2025
I didn’t like the authors responses but I was an important work showing the shared experience of medical professionals regarding something that feels and is forced to be so isolating.
December 28, 2016
Nothing revelatory for those in medicine. I wish more people would read this and understand what we go through.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews